Bulwark Takes

Sam Stein and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) take on the deadly Iranian strike on a U.S. base in Jordan, the mounting American casualties, and a rapidly widening war with no clear path to de-escalation.

Sam Stein speaks with Rep. Jim Himes about Trump’s election speech, his attacks on voting systems, and the danger of declaring sitting senators illegitimate. They also examine how Trump’s own foreign-interference files document Russia’s efforts to help him, spread the Burisma story, and create chaos in American politics.

Join Catherine Rampell and Justin Wolfers as they cover the week's biggest economics and finance news. Check out Justin's Substack, Platypus Economics: https://platypuseconomics.com/

Join Sarah Longwell and Sonny Bunch as they cover Trump's July 16, 2026 prime time speech.

Sam Stein speaks with Reuters national security reporter Erin Banco about Trump’s planned election speech, his administration’s moves against federal election officials, and concerns inside his own White House that reviving voting-machine conspiracies could backfire by convincing MAGA voters to stay home. White House weighs releasing controversial intel on China and US elections, sources say: https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/white-house-weighs-releasing-controversial-intel-china-us-elections-sources-say-2026-07-15/ Foreign Threats to the 2020 US Federal Elections: https://www.dni.gov/files/ODNI/documents/assessments/ICA-declass-16MAR21.pdf

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker take on the Pentagon's bizarre new testosterone screening program for troops, a promotion list with zero women admirals, and China's quiet power grab as America's alliances crack under Trump.

Buckle up. It’s the last Trio video of July—and it’s a big one. The guys start by reacting to Joe Rogan’s interview of JD Vance, in which the Vice President trafficked in Epstein conspiracy theories. Vance also reflected on more important matters, like who’s cooler: Republicans or Democrats? His expertise on coolness could only come from years of experience getting stuffed into lockers and getting swirlies from bullies. Then, they go deep on New Orleans rapper Boosie’s attempt to get a pardon from the administration with help from an infamous duo of GOP operatives. Plus, an update on Kash Patel’s girlfriend. And the woman who couldn’t walk forward after receiving the flu shot—where is she now? Read Will Sommer's False Flag newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

Join Sam Stein, Bill Kristol and Will Saletan as they cover the Todd Blanche confirmation hearing live.

Sam Stein speaks with Ben Wikler, former chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, about why Trump is not the main character for many voters, how groceries, gas prices, roads, and local relationships shape elections, and his plan for rebuilding Democratic power from the ground up. Buy Ben's book, "This Is The Plan: How to End America's Meltdown and Save Democracy" - https://www.amazon.com/This-Plan-Americas-Meltdown-Democracy/dp/1324131438

Lauren Egan speaks with Democratic congressional candidate Cait Conley about taking on Mike Lawler, Trump’s broken promise to avoid new wars, and Lawler’s four votes against reining in the administration’s Iran conflict. Make your summer wardrobe easier. Go to https://Quince.com/bulwarktakes for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Sam Stein and Will Saletan take on Trump's rare triple L: his 20% Strait of Hormuz toll dies within 24 hours, E. Jean Carroll finally collects $5.62 million after his lawyers claimed presidential immunity, and ICE halts vehicle stops after multiple fatal shootings. Make your summer wardrobe easier. Go to https://Quince.com/bulwarktakes for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. E. Jean Carroll receives $5.62 million sex abuse, defamation payment from Trump after yearslong wait Trump cites presidential immunity to try to toss out $83M judgment he owes to E. Jean Carroll ICE Ordered to Cease Most Vehicle Stops After 2 Killings in a Week

Join Bill Kristol and Ben Parker (filling in for Andrew Egger) as they cover the week's biggest stories. Make your summer wardrobe easier. Go to https://Quince.com/bulwarktakes for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Jonathan Cohn talks with epidemiologist Katelyn Jetelina about the record-breaking cyclospora outbreak, which foods to avoid, why officials still haven’t found the source, and how cuts to public health could make outbreaks like this more common.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer take on the conspiracy theories surrounding Lindsey Graham’s death and Mitch McConnell’s hospital “proof of life” photo, Jared and Ivanka Kushner’s scandal-plagued Albanian excursion, Libs of TikTok embedding with ICE, and the latest drama from the online looksmaxxers. Read Will's False Flag newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

Sam Stein and Will Saletan reflect on Senator Lindsey Graham's sudden death at 71, tracing his shift from Trump's fiercest critic to loyal ally, and critiquing Trump's self-centered, tone-deaf response to the news. See Will Saletan's series on Lindsey Graham here: https://specialto.thebulwark.com/ Become a Bulwark Youtube Plus Member here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG4Hp1KbGw4e02N7FpPXDgQ/join

Sam Stein takes on Trump's escalating war on the press: subpoenas targeting NYT reporters over Air Force One security reporting, a rambling 450-word attack on Maggie Haberman, and the irony of Trump attending the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner—while Mark Zuckerberg stays conspicuously silent on Trump's attacks on free speech.

Bill Kristol and Sarah Longwell take on Todd Blanche’s role in the Epstein cover-up, the Republican senators who could derail his attorney general nomination, and Lindsey Graham’s complicated political legacy. Watch Home of the Brave's ad about the Todd Blanche confirmation hearing: https://newsletter.ofthebrave.org/p/todd-blanche-is-a-predator-protector

Tim Miller joined the Deadline: White House panel to discuss Trump’s failed attempt to stop the bipartisan housing bill, the Republican cowardice it exposed, Trump's Qatar jet fiasco, and Graham Platner’s withdrawal from the Maine Senate race. Watch Deadline White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Sarah Longwell and Tim Miller take on Donald Trump’s decades-long habit of defending men accused of sexual assault and misconduct. From Roy Moore and Roger Ailes to Mike Tyson and Ghislaine Maxwell, they roll the archival tape and expose the staggering depth of the GOP’s hypocrisy.

Catherine Rampell is joined by special guests from Yale's Budget Lab, Natasha Sarin and Martha Gimbel, to break down Trump's refusal to sign a housing bill he once championed, the bipartisan push for tax breaks for seniors, and what happens when the across-the-board 10% tariffs Trump imposed expire later this month.

Sam Stein, Tim Miller and Will Sommer take on the week's weirdest stories: MAGA Manny changes his story on tape—to a puppet. Colorado GOP frontrunner Victor Marx's confessions keep getting darker, and he's still winning. Meghan McCain posts photographic proof that nobody came to her State Fair broadcast. Students for Trump founder Ryan Fournier is arraigned in shackles on new felony charges—with Jeanine Pirro's name on the indictment. Plus: the Candace Owens–Ben Shapiro war over the Kirk trial. This episode is sponsored by The New York Times. Read Will's False Flag newsletter at https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

Sam Stein and Tim Miller take on JD Vance's rough day in Wisconsin: playing Fraud Czar while his Iran deal implodes, and telling a cookie story that accidentally describes Trump. Plus: Patrick Dempsey passes on a Maine Senate run, and Riley Gaines isn't sure Helen Keller existed. (Will Sommer will be back soon. Pray for his wifi.) This episode is sponsored by The New York Times.

Join Sam Stein and Catherine Rampell as they cover the breaking news that Graham Platner has chosen to end his campaign for Senate. For their buy 1 get 1 50% off deal, head to https://3DayBlinds.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein and Adrian Carrasquillo take on the killing of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, shot dead by ICE in the North Houston suburbs. Lorenzo lived in the U.S. for 35 years, built a construction business, and put three sons in college. DHS released a statement nearly identical to the one it issued after Renee Goode's killing—and ICE won't say where the three witnesses in his car are. Read Adrian's full piece: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/he-lived-here-for-35-years-put-three-kids-in-college-ice-killed-jim-lorenzo-salgado-araujo For their buy 1 get 1 50% off deal, head to https://3DayBlinds.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Catherine Rampell gives her take on Donald Trump's latest attempt to claim credit for Walmart's routine discounts, treating a standard retail promotion like a White House policy victory. From Walmart sales to corporate investment announcements, Trump has repeatedly portrayed business decisions that were already in motion as personal wins for his administration. For their buy 1 get 1 50% off deal, head to https://3DayBlinds.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker went live to cover Trump's press conference at the NATO Summit where called Iran "scum," said negotiations were over, warned of "a big attack" on Iran, and said a U.S. aircraft carrier was struck by "the Islamic Republic of Japan.” Plus, Mark and Ben break down Trump's comments to Ukrainian President Zelensky about the war in Ukraine. Read more from Mark on NATO spending: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-nato-defense-spending-canard-trump-5-percent-europe-turkey-alliance-russia-ukraine Read more from Mark on the NATO Summit: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/withdrawing-troops-from-europe-is-policy-search-problem-hegseth-nato-trump Read more from Mark on Air Force Major Watson: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/when-conscience-conflicts-with-commission-military-uniformed-protest-trump-major-jason-watson For their buy 1 get 1 50% off deal, head to https://3DayBlinds.com/BULWARKTAKES

Trump's Versailles peace deal feels truly dead. Iran fired missiles at tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. answered with strikes promised to be "more intense" than last month's—and Tim asks the question nobody in the administration can answer: why? Plus: JD Vance's Iran victory lap ages badly, Trump trolls Meloni then insists he likes her, Belgium dunks on the "Trump curse," and the White House story that shows just how thick the narcissism bubble really is. Larineco is offering listeners up to 50% off at https://BuyLarine.com/BulwarkTakes Watch Clint Smith on The Bulwark Podcast: https://youtu.be/kQb657ieShk Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Bill Kristol and Ben Parker (filling in for Andrew Egger) went live to cover Trump's trip to the NATO summit, where he said the war in Ukraine "doesn't affect us," announced he would remove sanctions from Turkey, and renewed his calls for the U.S. to control Greenland. Plus, the continued fallout in Maine following POLITICO's reporting on Graham Platner. Larineco is offering listeners up to 50% off at https://BuyLarine.com/BulwarkTakes

Donald Trump spent America's 250th birthday celebrating one person: himself. Will Saletan breaks down Trump's July 4th speeches, his bizarre Mount Rushmore post, his obsession with foreign leaders praising him, and why Trump's version of patriotism always revolves around Donald Trump. From claiming America was "dead" before his return to joking about a third term, Trump reveals a vision of the country where loyalty to him matters more than loyalty to the Constitution. Taking care of your health just got easier – start here with Zocdoc: https://zocdoc.com/BULWARKTAKES #sponsored 

Sarah Longwell and Tim Miller went live to cover POLITICO's bombshell story on Graham Platner, Platner's response, and the future of the campaign. Taking care of your health just got easier – start here with Zocdoc: https://zocdoc.com/BULWARKTAKES #sponsored

Will Sommer and Sam Stein went live to cover the week's craziest stories from the right wing fever swamp, including MAGA blaming liberals for the rain on Trump's fireworks show, the conspiracy involving rap music and USAID, Trump asking FIFA's president to investigate the red card call, and the latest charges filed against Students for Trump founder. Taking care of your health just got easier – start here with Zocdoc: https://zocdoc.com/BULWARKTAKES #sponsored

Will Saletan and Jonathan Cohn take on the shakeup in Michigan's Senate race: Mallory McMorrow has dropped out, leaving a two-way Democratic primary between establishment favorite Haley Stevens and Bernie-backed progressive Abdul El-Sayed. Was McMorrow pushed? Where do her voters go? And is the man who would be America's first Muslim senator the party's biggest risk—or its best shot at holding a seat Democrats have kept for decades?

Trump's massive America 250 celebration was supposed to be a patriotic showcase, but it quickly descended into chaos. Sam Stein and Bill Kristol give their takes on the biggest failures of the day, from Patriot Front's march through Washington, D.C. and Republicans' attempts to blame the left, to Doug Burgum's refusal to clearly condemn neo-Nazis, hours-long security delays, thunderstorms, and a celebration that seemed designed more to glorify Donald Trump than the country itself.

Jay Nordlinger joins Bill Kristol for Bulwark on Sunday. Read Jay's Substack, "Onward and Upward" https://www.jaynordlinger.com/

Tim Miller is joined by TMZ DC's Charlie Cotton and Jacob Wasserman to talk about their unlikely rise on Capitol Hill and why lawmakers keep stopping to talk to them. From Lindsey Graham's infamous Disney bubble wand to chasing members of Congress through the Capitol, the pair discuss how they're bringing a fresh approach to political reporting, what surprised them most about Washington, and why asking different questions can reveal a different side of the people in power. They also share behind-the-scenes stories from their first two months covering Congress and what it's like building relationships with politicians across the political spectrum.

Tim Miller takes on Trump's 327 unreported stock trades made the day before his surprise tariff pause—and why Tim has come around on impeachment. He also breaks down the July 4th speech from Mayor Mamdani that even this ex-Republican appreciated. Plus, Tim appears on Deadline: White House to discuss a new congressional report on how the White House hijacked America's 250th, from the shadow charity Freedom 250 to Park Service workers made to wear "Vichy pins." Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Sarah Longwell and Andrew Egger give their takes on the surprisingly competitive political race in Iowa, where Democratic nominee Rob Sand is trying to build a new kind of populist message: less culture-war confrontation, more competence, accountability, and structural reform. Andrew went to Iowa to attend Sand’s campaign events in rural Iowa, where Rob is blending local concerns like affordability, school funding, abortion restrictions, and agricultural policy into a broader pitch against one-party Republican control. Despite Iowa’s recent GOP dominance, new polling suggests a closer-than-expected race, raising questions about whether Sand’s “nonpartisan populism” can break through in a state that has been trending right for years. Read more from Andrew's reporting: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/iowa-rob-sand-democratic-governor-nominee-campaign-report-auditor-populism

Tim Miller recaps his appearance with Katy Tur: Trump's vow to give a "really long" July 4th speech in extreme heat, the "threesome" medal moment in North Dakota, and Tim's theory of why Trump has stopped trying to win the midterms—he's chasing statues, arches, and grotesque wealth instead. Plus, an ugly June jobs report.

Tim Miller is joined Jared Poland and Brendan Hartnett after they spent time at Trump's "Great American State Fair" on the National Mall. What was billed as a patriotic celebration to celebrate America's 250th anniversary felt more like an underwhelming county fair, complete with sparse crowds, overpriced food, empty podcast tapings, Michael Knowles debating the Salem witch trials and a lumberjack competition. This episode is sponsored by The New York Times.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer take on the lewd "Uncle Sam" court battle to get back on the National Mall, Stephen Miller's deranged pregnancy-test proposal for women entering the country, Scott Presler getting blocked from the South Dakota GOP convention, Trump's $700 million Qatari Air Force One, James Fishback's residency lawsuit and his cringeworthy iShowSpeed stream-snipe, MAGA's blackmail-debate meltdown, and JD Vance bombing in front of the troops. This episode is sponsored by The New York Times.

The Supreme Court left birthright citizenship intact, but the bigger story may be everything else it handed the Trump administration. Ben Parker and Adrian Carrasquillo are joined by the American Immigration Council's Michelle LaPointe and Todd Schulte from FWD.us to break down the Court's immigration rulings, what they mean for Temporary Protected Status asylum, and Trump's mass deportation agenda. They also react to Stephen Miller's explosive response to the birthright citizenship decision, the far-right rhetoric surrounding immigration, and explain why hundreds of thousands of immigrants could soon lose legal protections. Read more from Adrian: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/huddled-masses This week, The Bulwark is running our July 4th sale—a full year of membership for our email newsletters, articles, and everything else that we offer on our website for $86. Because this holiday, this flag, this country—it belongs to all of us. Not one party. Not one person. Come join us: https://thebulwark.com/july4

Sarah Longwell, Tim Miller and Will Sommer take on the Great American State Fair fiasco, MAGA's rival Freedom Fest lineup (starring Dog the Bounty Hunter), and Colorado's stranger-than-fiction GOP frontrunner Victor Marx—live from the Aspen Ideas Festival. Plus: an audience Q&A on hate, hope, and why authoritarians want you exhausted.

Join Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker as they cover the latest on negotiations with Iran, why Pete Hegseth and Marco Rubio are still using Signal despite the blatant security risks, and why American allies are losing trust in the United States.  This week, The Bulwark is running our July 4th sale—a full year of membership for our email newsletters, articles, and everything else that we offer on our website for $86. Because this holiday, this flag, this country—it belongs to all of us. Not one party. Not one person. Come join us: https://thebulwark.com/july4

Tim Miller recaps his appearance on Deadline: White House with Nicole Wallace—discussing new polls for the Texas Senate race, the Supreme Court's liberal justices sounding the alarm in recent rulings, and new reporting on Trump's East Wing ballroom, which broke ground under no-bid contracts despite Trump's repeated promises that it would cost taxpayers "not 10 cents."

Join Sam Stein and Brian Tyler Cohen as they go live to cover the day's news and discuss BTC's new book, "The Day After." Pre-order the book: https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/thedayafter

Sam Stein, Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol went live to cover the Supreme Court's decision to uphold birthright citizenship in a major blow to Trump's agenda. They break down the decision and the political impact it could have for Republicans ahead of the midterms. This week, The Bulwark is running our July 4th sale—a full year of membership for everything we offer on our website for $86. Because this holiday, this flag, this country—it belongs to all of us. Not one party. Not one person. Come join us. Become a Bulwark+ member: thebulwark.com/july4

Will Saletan gives his take on Sen. Bill Cassidy's remarkable CBS interview, where the outgoing Louisiana Republican criticizes Trump on everything from Iran and affordability to executive power, RFK Jr., vaccines, and the Constitution. Cassidy says RFK Jr. is building public health on "a foundation of lies," warns against putting any president above the law, and reflects on why standing up to Trump ultimately cost him his Senate seat. Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Former Republican Senator Jeff Flake joins Sarah Longwell for his take on the moment Republicans could have stopped Donald Trump and why they didn't. Flake reflects on his famous 2017 speech, the GOP's surrender of congressional power, why so few Republicans stood up to Trump, and whether the party can ever return to its conservative roots. Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein, Andrew Egger, and Politico's Kyle Cheney go live to break down the Supreme Court's latest rulings, including decisions upholding mail-in voting, blocking President Trump from firing Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, and allowing him to remove independent regulators. Read more from Kyle: https://www.politico.com/staff/kyle-cheney Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Will Saletan takes on Trump's unraveling Iran war—drone strikes on U.S. allies, Iran's claim to control the Strait of Hormuz, and a new threat to build nuclear weapons. He breaks down the actual text of the agreement Trump signed, fact-checks a week of contradictory claims about oil prices and military control, and explains why Iran knows Trump's threats are empty.

Former Pardon Attorney Liz Oyer joins Bill Kristol to discuss Todd Blanche, Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Read Liz Oyer's Substack

Sonny Bunch and Catherine Rampell take on Mel Brooks' 100th birthday and AFI's new ranking of Blazing Saddles as the funniest movie ever made. They dig into his EGOT-winning career, his fearless mockery of Hitler, why his comedy still holds up — plus the upcoming Spaceballs sequel and Catherine's middle-school Spaceballs obsession.

Tim Miller and Will Sommer to give their takes on one of the strangest weeks in MAGA world. They unpack the arrest of a pro-Trump streamer accused of committing lewd acts at Trump's Great American State Fair, the latest legal troubles facing Students for Trump founder Ryan Fournier, and the new report raising questions about Rep. Abe Hamadeh's live-in senior staffer. Read more from Sources Say News: https://sourcessay.news/p/looksmaxxing-gilded-offices-and-a-live-in-staffer-insider-allegations-of-abe-hamadeh-s-capitol-hill

Tim Miller takes on the collapsing Iran ceasefire—Iranian drones hitting ships in the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. counterstrikes, Iran retaliating against U.S. targets in Bahrain, and JD Vance's tough-guy statement that's landing nowhere. Plus: Trump's new self-portrait passport, and whether he understands what a passport is.

Tim Miller went on MS Now to talk to Nicolle Wallace to give his take on one of the most disturbing political stories of the year after Pete Buttigieg revealed that a false report led child protective services to investigate his family. Tim explains why weaponizing the government against political opponents should alarm every American. Plus, Tim reacts to Megyn Kelly's comments about Haitian immigrants and fact-checks JD Vance's take on Watergate. Read more from Pete: https://petebuttigieg.substack.com/p/a-terrible-thing-happened-to-my-family

Join Catherine Rampell and JVL as they cover the week's financial and economics stories. Read more from Catherine's newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-americans-trump-would-rather

Will Saletan takes on Donald Trump’s vision of American power, arguing that military force is increasingly being used as a tool for profit—through oil, minerals, trade concessions, and economic leverage rather than the defense of allies or democratic values. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

JVL and Will Sommer give their takes on Trump’s kickoff event for the America 250 celebration and the president’s immediate lie that 45,000 people packed the National Mall and “nobody left” early. They dig into the crowd-size lies, the campaign-style speech at an official government event, Trump’s promises about the White House ballroom, and why the America 250 rollout already feels more focused on Trump’s image than America’s birthday. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

Sam Stein and Jonathan Cohn discuss the major SCOTUS decision that would allow the White House to deport more than 350,000 refugees.  Read more from Jonathan Cohn: https://www.thebulwark.com/trumps-deportation-agenda-awaits-supreme-court-grandma-haitians-temporary-protected-status-heath-aides Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

Join Sam Stein, Will Sommer, and Andrew Egger as they cover Trump's "Freedom 250" rally in Washington, DC. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Andrew Egger, Catherine Rampell and Joe Perticone are going live to cover Trump's sudden decision not to sign the bipartisan housing bill. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Join Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker as they cover the week's biggest military and foreign policy stories. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Jonathan Cohn takes on Trump's push to end temporary protected status for Haitian immigrants—following home healthcare worker Maryse, who cares for a 96-year-old in South Florida, and what's actually at stake for the 350,000+ people (and their U.S.-born children) facing deportation as early as July 2nd if the Supreme Court sides with the administration. Read more from Jonathan Cohn: https://www.thebulwark.com/trumps-deportation-agenda-awaits-supreme-court-grandma-haitians-temporary-protected-status-heath-aides Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Sen. Mark Warner joins Sam Stein for his take on the chaos surrounding acting DNI Bill Pulte, alarming reports of potential firings inside the intelligence community, and why Warner believes Pulte poses a national security risk. They also dive into explosive questions surrounding former DNI Tulsi Gabbard after reports detailing her ties to a cult and why those revelations surfaced only after she left office. Plus, Warner weighs in on Trump's Iran negotiations, the lack of congressional oversight, and what lawmakers still don't know about the administration's plans.

Andrew and Bill went live to talk about Trump's hatchet man Bill Pulte firing people as his first day at DNI, JD Vance getting embarrassed by Iran, the Trump official making the case that taking over Greenland could help Red Lobster, and Trump blames Obama for Trump's poor job renovating the Reflecting Pool. Read more from Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/morningshots

Tim Miller and JVL take a victory lap through some of the most confident predictions from the Iran War's biggest cheerleaders. Scott Jennings, Ben Shapiro, Hugh Hewitt, Mark Levin, and Bari Weiss' bloggers promised total victory, regime change, and a transformed Middle East. Instead, Trump ended up signing a deal with the very regime they said had to be defeated. Now, those same loudest voices cheering for "total victory" are scrambling to explain Trump's deal with Iran. Head to https://Superpower.com and use code BULWARKTAKES at checkout for $20 off your membership. Unlock your new health intelligence. 100+ biomarkers. Every year. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod  

Will Sommer and Sam Stein went live as they cover the craziest stories from the right wing fever swamp, including Trump threatening people with a 10-year prison sentence over the Reflecting Pool, the false Candace Owens death conspiracy theory, Tulsi Gabbard being controlled by a cult leader, and Greg Bovino's love for Dracula. Head to Superpower.com and use code BULWARKTAKES at checkout for $20 off your membership. Unlock your new health intelligence. 100+ biomarkers. Every year. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod  You can buy Will's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Trust-Plan-Conspiracy-Reshaped-America/dp/0063114488/?tag=bulwark08-20

Sam Stein and Will Saletan take on the messy first day of U.S.-Iran talks—Trump's threat to seize the Strait of Hormuz and kill negotiators, JD Vance appearing to get publicly snubbed, and the Lebanon clause that may have handed Hezbollah a veto over the whole deal.

Jonathan Cohn reports from South Beach on the fight over a beloved LGBTQ landmark, the history of Miami Beach’s queer community, and how a symbol many thought was gone ended up becoming permanent. Read more in The Bulwark

Bill Kristol sits down with Civil War historian Kevin Levin to examine Trump’s effort to reshape America’s story ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary. Read Civil War Memory

JVL and Sonny Bunch take on the bizarre saga of Washington’s algae-filled Reflecting Pool and John Cafaro the Trump-connected donor who landed the contract to fix it. Plus, an unexpected detour into wrestling history, Paul Bearer, and why this whole scandal feels more like a cartoon than real life. Looking for a Father's Day gift? Consider a membership to The Bulwark's website. Learn more at https://www.thebulwark.com/subscribe

Join Catherine Rampell and JVL live as they cover the week's economic and financial news. The Bulwark makes a fantastic Father's Day gift: Learn more at thebulwark.com/subscribe

Will Saletan takes on JD Vance's TV blitz defending the Iran nuclear deal—and checks his claims against the actual text. 

Sam Stein, Tim Miller and Will Sommer take on an insane MAGA scandal in DC—fake Secret Service badges, a strip club blowup, tearful confessions about an Iran airstrike that never happened, and an arrest that finally brought the whole charade crashing down. Plus: what exactly is going on with Kari Lake's face? Read Will Sommer's False Flag newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-shocking-arrest-of-a-maga-pit-bull-fake-secret-service-pal-ryan-fournier-jordan-daley Bulwark website subscriptions make a fantastic Father's Day gift! Learn more at https://www.thebulwark.com/subscribe

Sam Stein, Brendan Hartnett and Sarah Matthews are going live to cover the mess at Trump's renovated Reflecting Pool.

Tim Miller and JVL attempt to read JD Vance’s new memoir 'Communion' and discover a book full of contradictions, self-owns, political rationalizations, and some very revealing clues about the vice president’s worldview. Buy Vance's new book (or don't!): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GTQ68YZN CORRECTION: Talking about a Catholic bookstore in Washington, D.C., on K Street, JVL says it was “Pauline Book Center.” This is wrong. JVL was referring to the Catholic Information Center on K Street. There is another Catholic hub, across the river on King Street in Alexandria, Virginia, called Pauline Books. JVL's stupid brain mushed them together. He regrets the error.

Journalist Michael Weiss, editor of The Insider, and retired CIA veteran Marc Polymeropoulous take over The Bulwark for the kind of conversation they have with each other every day about the intelligence world, what the hell is happening in the United States and what it means around the globe. As they started recording, Trump was wrapping his bizarre Wednesday speech at the G7 Summit defending his deal with Iran. Marc and Michael go off about the news conference and turn to a riveting conversation about what is different about the war with Iran compared to the continuing show of strength in Ukraine and how that's happening thanks to years of groundwork by the CIA. It's an alliance that is actually winning despite Trump's posture towards Ukraine and the country's president, Volodymyr Zelensky. Follow Marc on X here: https://x.com/Mpolymer ...and Michael here: https://x.com/michaeldweiss Watch Michael's latest conversation with Tim Miller: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85RXVxg8CHI And you can read Michael's work on his Substack: https://macspaunday.substack.com/ ...and at The Insider: https://theins.press/en/authors/weiss

Sam Stein, Andrew Egger, and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.), went live to cover Trump's appearance at the G7 conference. Plus, the gang reacts to the U.S. unveiling the text in their official MOU with Iran.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker are joined by Tom Nichols to discuss the week's military news. Read more from Tom Nichols: https://www.theatlantic.com/newsletters/2026/06/trump-g7-comments-misunderstsand-middle-east/687569/ Buy Mark's book here: http://www.amazon.com/dp/1966786727/?tag=bulwark08-20

Sam Stein and JVL give their takes on a bombshell new report from the Washington Post showing Trump's White House ballroom project could cost more than $600 million with taxpayers footing half the bill. They break down the ballooning price tag, the demolition of the East Wing, and whether a future president should just tear the whole thing down. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol are going live to cover the week's biggest news. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

Sam Stein and POLITICO’s Chris Cadelago take on reports that the Trump Justice Department is investigating Gavin Newsom and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom. They discuss what's actually known about the probe, the long-running Trump-Newsom rivalry, and whether the investigation is a legitimate corruption case or the latest example of Trump targeting his political opponents. Sleep cooler this summer with Boll & Branch during their Annual Summer Event. For a limited time, get 20% off sitewide at https://BollAndBranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes. Exclusions apply.

Tim Miller is joined by journalist and YouTuber Caolan Robertson, reporting from Kyiv after one of Russia's most devastating attacks on Ukraine in months. Caolan witnessed the aftermath firsthand as Russian missiles and drones struck the Dormition Cathedral, a historic monastery and church complex more than 1,000 years old and one of the most significant sites in Christian history. They discuss Putin's escalating campaign against Ukrainian civilians, the hypocrisy of Russia's self-proclaimed defense of "Christian values," and what life is like in Ukraine as Russia intensifies its terror attacks despite mounting setbacks on the battlefield. Caolan also shares his reporting from Ireland, where critical materials continue flowing into Russia's war machine despite public support for Ukraine. Watch more from Caolan: https://www.youtube.com/@CaolanReports Sleep cooler this summer with Boll & Branch during their Annual Summer Event. For a limited time, get 20% off sitewide at https://BollAndBranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes. Exclusions apply.

Will Sommer and Sam Stein went live to unpack last night's gross UFC fight at the White House, Eric Trump's alleged betting scandal, MAGA allies unhappy about a proposed Iran deal, James Fishback calling his opponent Byron Donalds a "slave," and Spencer Pratt now becoming the Joker after losing the LA mayor's race. Sleep cooler this summer with Boll & Branch during their Annual Summer Event. For a limited time, get 20% off sitewide at BollAndBranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes. Exclusions apply.

Tim Miller and JVL give their takes on Trump's announcement that he's reached a deal with Iran. Pakistan says the deal will be signed on Friday.

Will Saletan gives his take on the Trump administration’s victory lap over a potential Iran agreement and explains why the supposed deal sounds remarkably similar to the nuclear deal Trump spent years attacking. After Pete Hegseth and Mike Waltz hit the Sunday shows to sell Trump’s foreign policy “win,” Will examines the White House's contradictions and what the administration may not be telling you.

Bill Kristol and Ryan Goodman discuss Bill Pulte, FISA, Todd Blanche, and the legality of the Iran War.

The Bulwark's Brendan Hartnett reported live from the Kennedy Center at 2:30 AM on Saturday morning, where Rep. Joyce Beatty—who sued Trump in December after being silenced during the board vote to add his name to the building—joins him to watch it finally come back down, following a federal judge's ruling that only Congress has the authority to rename the memorial.

Tim Miller and political streamer Destiny take on Bulwark Podcast clip that radicalized an anti-communist, Elon's first trillion, Trump's kakistocracy cabinet, why Democrats keep walking into far-left media ambushes, and whether the rest of us have any idea what to do about any of it.

Tim Miller recaps his appearance on Deadline: White House with Nicole Wallace, then delivers his personal thoughts about Pride. Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Pete Hegseth's latest workout video was supposed to showcase strength. Instead, it was sloppy, in poor form, and seems to show Trump administration officials more determined to become fitness influencers than lead a country. Will Sommer and Joe Perticone give their takes on Hegseth's viral bench press session, RFK Jr.'s airport pull-up stunts, Kash Patel's workout videos, and the broader obsession with macho posturing in MAGA politics.

Bill Kristol, Sonny Bunch and Brendan Hartnett went live to cover the court ordered removal of Trump's name from the Kennedy Center. Watch Sonny's conversation with Kennedy Center whistleblower Josef Palermo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rEDNCdqYzg Read Sonny's piece on the dismantling of the Kennedy Center: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/a-day-and-a-nation-at-the-kennedy-center

Join Catherine and JVL at 12:30pm on Friday to discuss the week's economic and financial news. Read Catherine's 'Receipts' newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/receipts Read JVL's 'Triad' newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/thetriad

Tim Miller, Sam Stein, and Will Sommer are back and the FBI is coming after Will! How much time is Kash Patel's bureau spending on posting memes than fighting crime? Then, RFK Jr. sits down with a wellness guru whose résumé includes injecting stem cells into his own penis. Naturally, he's now dispensing health advice from the Health and Human Services podcast studio. And finally, the man leading the push to draft former Border Patrol official Greg Bovino for a 2028 presidential run is facing a felony meth charge after a bizarre motel incident. Plus: Candace Owens starts another right-wing influencer war about masculinity. Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat, Aspen, and Walden frames at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES Read more from Will’s False Flag newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/trump-dangerous-escalation-losing-war-iran-bombing-kharg-invasion-blanche-epstein

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker are going live to cover President Trump's post threatening an invasion of Iran's Kharg Island. Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat, Aspen, and Walden frames at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Sonny Bunch give their takes on the New York Times bombshell surrounding the Trump White House’s frantic effort to manage the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. Behind the several meetings in the Situation Room, JD Vance looks ahead to his own 2028 prospects, Dan Bongino screamed at Pam Bondi, and Susie Wiles and Stephen Chung were left trying to contain damage that keeps multiplying. The only consistent goal was protecting Donald Trump from whatever the files might say. Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

JVL, Andrew Egger and Ben Parker are going live to discuss Trump's June 10th press event where he said he "loves" inflation and claimed to reveal military secrets about oil in Iran. Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker are discussing the week's major military and foreign policy news. Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Join Sam Stein and Bill Kristol as they cover the evening's primary elections: Maine, South Carolina, and more. Plus, the latest on Iran and Trump digging his heels in on the appointment of Bill Pulte. Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat, Aspen, and Walden frames at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol went live to cover Trump falling asleep after getting booed at the NBA Finals, Mike Johnson and the GOP launching back into election-fraud conspiracy theories, and an update to the Pentagon's fighting with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat, Aspen, and Walden frames at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES Read more from Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/hegseth-loses-his-holy-war-defense-mormonism-lds-christianity-lee

Jonathan Cohn interviewed all three major Democratic candidates in Michigan’s high-stakes Senate race—Abdul El-Sayed, Mallory McMorrow, and Haley Stevens—to compare their views on healthcare, electric vehicles, government spending, and the future of the Democratic Party. Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat, Aspen, and Walden frames at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES Read more on the Michigan Senate race: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/issues-that-could-decide-michigan-senate-race-interviews-mcmorrow-stevens-el-sayed

Tim Miller gives his take on Donald Trump's appearance at Madison Square Garden for Game 3 of the NBA Finals, where the president was met with a chorus of boos from Knicks fans. Tim breaks down the reaction inside MSG, the even harsher response from fans gathered outside to watch the game, and the attempts by Fox News to spin away what everyone could plainly hear. Why does Trump's movement always seem to need validation and why can't they just admit when the crowd turns against him? Elevate your summer wardrobe. Go to https://Quince.com/bulwarktakes for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Sam Stein went on MS Now to give his take on the lawsuit trying to stop Donald Trump’s planned UFC event at the White House, the legal questions surrounding it, and why it’s yet another example of Trump blurring the line between public office and private interests. His longtime ally Dana White is involved, Trump holds a financial stake in UFC’s parent company, it's on federal property, and they're having it be a nationally televised by another Trump ally. Then, Sam dives into a new report on FBI Director Kash Patel’s continuing search for evidence of a supposed “deep state” conspiracy against Trump. Why are prosecutors leaving? Why do investigations keep coming up empty? Elevate your summer wardrobe. Go to https://Quince.com/bulwarktakes for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Andrew Egger is joined by Casey Michel, author of the forthcoming book United States of Oligarchy: How America's Wealthiest Ally with Dictators, Weaken the U.S., and Destroy Democracy, to examine how Jared Kushner became a walking conflict of interest at the center of American foreign policy. From cultivating relationships with Saudi royals and Gulf autocrats while serving in the White House to launching a multibillion-dollar investment fund backed by foreign governments after leaving office, Casey walks through how Kushner went from being a laughingstock in the Middle East to a billionaire. Plus, with all these foreign interest conflicts, why is Congress allowing him to be one of Trump's key players in negotiations on Gaza, Ukraine, and Iran despite having no traditional diplomatic experience. Elevate your summer wardrobe. Go to https://Quince.com/bulwarktakes for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. Read more from Casey in Mother Jones: https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2026/06/jared-kushner-affinity-partners-fund-saud[…]gaza-peace-deal-diplomat-steve-witkoff-donald-ivanka-trump/ You can pre-order Casey's book here: https://www.amazon.com/United-States-Oligarchy-Wealthiest-Dictators/dp/1250430119/?tag=bulwark08-20

Sam Stein and Will Sommer give their takes on the flurry of stories across the right-wing fever swamp. They discuss: Mike Lee blasting Pete Hegseth for snubbing Mormons, Kash Patel launching attacks against Judicial Watch, Republicans claiming fraud because Spencer Pratt is losing in the LA mayoral race, Lauren Boebert sounding off on a Fox News reporter, and whether Albania’s PM could be ousted over Jared and Ivanka’s luxury resort. Elevate your summer wardrobe. Go to https://Quince.com/bulwarktakes for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Sonny Bunch and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) review Pressure, the new film about the D-Day weather decision that nearly derailed the largest invasion in history. They discuss what Eisenhower was really up against: a catastrophic dress rehearsal, a ghost army commanded by Patton, alliance politics, and a lone British meteorologist telling him the June 5th launch date would be a disaster. Plus: Hertling on getting caught in an Iraqi sandstorm, the Coast Guard's impossible mission in The Perfect Storm, the Eagle Claw debacle in Argo, and the Benghazi chaos of 13 Hours—and what all of these have in common. Also, was Brendan Fraser the right choice to play Ike?

Tim Miller reacts to Donald Trump’s combative NBC interview, where the president lashes out at the press, revives election conspiracy theories, defends his Jan. 6 compensation fund, dismisses farmers’ economic pain, and makes fresh promises on gas prices and Iran. By the end, the interview devolves into a shouting match—and Trump storms out.

Tom Joscelyn joins Bill Kristol for Bulwark on Sunday.

Sam Stein and Brendan Hartnett take on the most important research project in American political journalism: documenting every time Donald Trump has publicly lost his mind over how handsome a man is. After over 100 documented instances, it's fair to say we have a pattern on our hands. The president  cannot stop slow-panning across a room full of guys and narrating what he sees. We're not here to judge. We're here to document

Donald Trump has spent years giving his critics material. Will Saletan brings together some of his favorite Bulwark Takes videos covering Trump's most absurd interviews, bizarre conspiracy theories, embarrassing gaffes, and unforgettable Fox News trainwrecks. From anchors desperately trying to coach him through interviews, to the dumbest lies he's said about elections, to his strange relationship with Vladimir Putin, there is no shortage of moments that go from comical to infuriating. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Catherine Rampell and Jonathan Cohn give their takes on the return of the flesh-eating parasite screwworm. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has already blamed the Biden's border and immigration policies as a potential cause after saying in November that it was under control. But is that the full story? We examine whether DOGE-related staffing cuts and the broader erosion of international cooperation may have played a role in weakening surveillance and response systems. Plus, beef prices are already at record highs, and ranchers are warning of even more disruption ahead if the outbreak spreads, we explain the economic impacts this could have on farmers and consumers. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Catherine Rampell and Sam Stein went live to cover the week's financial and economic news. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today. Read Catherine Rampell's 'Receipts' newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/receipts

Hunter Biden is back online and he’s not just lurking. He’s posting, replying, and diving headfirst into viral Twitter debates with users big and small. JVL, Sam Stein, and Sonny Bunch give their takes on whether Hunter’s unexpected social media renaissance is just chaos…or something more strategic. Could this be a redemption arc? A political liability? Or even the beginning of a strange new media career? Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Tim Miller takes on the Senate vote that kept Trump’s controversial $1.8 billion fund alive, exposing the Republican lawmakers who condemned it in public and then helped save it behind closed doors. Plus, the growing controversy surrounding Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, and Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump’s luxury island project in Albania as questions about corruption and self-enrichment continue to mount. Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

CNN’s Donie O’Sullivan joins Sam Stein and Will Sommer to discuss his new reporting on the Groypers, the followers of white nationalist streamer Nick Fuentes. Donie spoke to two Groypers who defended Fuentes sexist and racist views. But shortly after they spoke, the two were admonished by Fuentes and faced calls by other supporters to be doxxed because of how they looked. Sam, Will and Donie break down what it actually means to be a Groyper and how online extremism, irony, and nihilism blur together. Watch more of Donie’s work: https://www.cnn.com/videos/title-2600247 Read Will Sommer's 'False Flag' newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

As House Democrats look to reclaim the majority in 2026, DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene joins Joe Perticone to unveil four new Democratic target districts and explains why her party believes the political map is expanding. DelBene discusses emerging pickup opportunities in New Jersey, California, Nebraska, and Florida, including the growing controversy surrounding Tom Kean Jr., who has been absent from public view for months. Plus, Joe also asks Florida's newly redrawn congressional map and whether DelBene and the DCCC is supporting Debbie Wasserman Schultz in her controversial new district. Read Joe Perticone's 'Press Pass' Newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/presspass

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Will Sommer are back to give their takes on Ivanka and Jared Kushner’s luxury island project in Albania that's sparking mass protests, the candidate in Colorado’s Republican gubernatorial race who claims he performs exorcisms, and the federal insider trading investigation into George Santos. Plus, Will brings the latest update from the increasingly chaotic world of right-wing influencer Elijah Schaefer. Read Will Sommer's 'False Flag' newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

Tim Miller takes on the growing controversy surrounding Delaney Hall, the ICE detention facility facing allegations of abusive conditions, blocked inspections, and a detainee hunger strike. He also examines the confrontation outside the facility involving protesters and Senator Andy Kim. Life inside the Delaney Hall ICE detention camp is a travestyhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jun/02/ice-detention-camp-delaney-hall S.O.S: A Second Letter From Delaney Hall: https://www.lahuelga.com/sos

Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (ret.) discuss Pete Hegseth’s controversial intervention in military promotions, rising tensions with Iran, and Ukraine’s latest strikes deep inside Russia. Then they’re joined by former Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Eric Schoomaker for a wide-ranging conversation on Ebola, pandemic preparedness, military medicine, and what America may be losing as public health infrastructure is dismantled.

Jonathan Cohn talks with oncologist and UPenn vice provost Zeke Emanuel about the breakthrough new pancreatic cancer treatment—what the science actually means, why it took so long, and what Trump's cuts to federal research funding put at risk.

Tim Miller talks with Rufus Gifford—former U.S. Ambassador to Denmark—about Jeff Landry's uninvited, chaotic trip to Greenland as Trump's made-up "special envoy." Spoiler: it did not go well for Landry. Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at PocketHose.com/terms.

Sam Stein and Semafor's Max Tani go live to react to CBS firing Scott Pelley from 60 Minutes. Pelley's firing comes after he tore into Bari Weiss and 60 Minutes' new executive producer Nick Bilton, accusing Weiss of "murdering" the venerated newsmagazine. Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms.

Sarah Longwell gives her take on the state of the race in Iowa ahead of Tuesday's primary elections. With Donald Trump's approval numbers slipping, farmers feeling the effects of tariffs, and growing frustration with Republican leadership in the state, Democrats believe they have a real opportunity to compete in races that once seemed out of reach. Sarah breaks down what's driving voter anger and looks at Democratic gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand, the Democratic Senate primary between Josh Turek and Zach Wahls, and why national political observers are suddenly paying close attention to a state that has trended Republican for years. Is Iowa becoming competitive again? And could it be one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 election cycle? Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at PocketHose.com/terms.

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol went live to react to Trump’s shocking decision to install housing official Bill Pulte as Acting Director of National Intelligence, despite having no intelligence background. They discuss what the appointment says about Trump’s priorities, growing concerns about the weaponization of government power, signs of Republican resistance on Capitol Hill, and whether Trump’s increasingly frustrated behavior signals deeper problems ahead for his presidency. Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms.

JVL and Will Sommer give their takes on the explosive showdown inside CBS News after Scott Pelley confronted new 60 Minutes executive producer Nick Bilton during his first meeting with staff. According to reporting from Oliver Darcy's Status newsletter, Pelley blasted CBS leadership and declared that Bari Weiss is "murdering 60 Minutes." JVL and Will break down what happened in the meeting, why Bilton appeared unprepared for the backlash, the firing of key 60 Minutes staffers, and what the corporate overhaul could mean for the future of the iconic broadcast. They also discuss why many journalists believe the changes have little to do with digital growth and everything to do with control over the newsroom. Read more from Status: https://www.status.news/p/scott-pelley-60-minutes-nick-bilton-bari-weiss

Sam Stein and Andrew Egger give their takes on the breaking news that the Trump administration is reportedly pausing and potentially abandoning the controversial $1.8 billion slush fund for January 6 defendants and other Trump allies. Sam and Andrew walk through how the arrangement came together, why judges are now scrutinizing it, and why even Republican lawmakers are growing uneasy with the implications. But just because they said it's "paused," is it actually over?

Will Sommer and Sam Stein went live on Monday at 10am to cover the outrage from Republicans about artists cancelling on America 250 and Trump making it a rally instead, the Proud Boys bringing cookies to a pro-ICE rally, Trump’s former Border Patrol chief Greg Bovino hanging with white nationalists, and James Fishback’s ex-girlfriend speaking out. Read more from Will: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

Catherine Rampell and Will Sommer take on one of the strangest stories in American politics: a mystery candidate named Dan Sullivan has entered the Alaska Senate race—as a Republican—to run against the incumbent Republican senator also named Dan Sullivan. Who recruited him, why does his photo look AI-generated, and why is a Peltola-aligned strategist's name buried in the press release metadata?

Nathaniel Zelinsky, lead counsel in the Kennedy Center case against Trump, joins Bill Kristol for Bulwark on Sunday to discuss the current situation with Trump and the courts. Nathaniel Zelinsky is a senior counsel and member of the Washington Litigation Group’s steering committee. He is an appellate lawyer who has handled high stakes cases involving major constitutional questions and multibillion dollar disputes, and has argued at every level of the federal judiciary, including before the Supreme Court.

Tim Miller and Pablo Torre take on the White House calling Tim an Iranian propagandist, how Trump colonized American sports culture—from SEC stadiums to the White House lawn—and why Democrats keep fumbling the ball on sports politics.

Catherine Rampell welcomes Epstein survivor Annie Farmer to discuss Pam Bondi’s closed-door congressional testimony, the DOJ’s handling of the Epstein files, and the unanswered questions that continue to fuel demands for transparency. Farmer shares her firsthand perspective on the investigation, the treatment of survivors, concerns about missing documents, and why accountability remains elusive decades after the first warnings about Epstein.

Ben Parker and Sonny Bunch give their takes on the news that a federal judge's ruled that Trump's name must be removed from Kennedy Center. They examine the legal battle, the mass exodus of performers, the uncertain future of upcoming seasons, and how Trump's efforts to remake the Kennedy Center may have backfired. Read more from Sonny's piece: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/a-day-and-a-nation-at-the-kennedy-center Watch Sonny's conversation with Josef Palermo's on the Kennedy Center: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rEDNCdqYzg

Catherine and JVL are going LIVE at 12:30pm  on Friday. Read Catherine Rampell's 'Receipts' newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/receipts

Tim Miller reacts after the official White House account suggested he should be investigated under FARA over his commentary on the Iran war. He also breaks down the Trump administration’s escalating use of the DOJ against critics, including a criminal investigation against E. Jean Carroll, and explains why he believes the White House is lashing out as the Iran negotiations unravel.

JVL and Sam Stein give their takes on CBS News firing Sharyn Alfonsi, Cecilia Vega, and top executives at 60 Minutes. Plus, they break down why the changes at CBS News appear tied to corporate merger politics from Trumpworld and what the shakeup says about the future of independent journalism in America.

JVL and Sonny Bunch take on Trump's "Freedom 250" disaster—the washed-up acts already bailing on the Great American State Fair, the UFC cage being built on the White House lawn, and why the whole spectacle looks less like a birthday party and more like something straight out of The Boys.

Sam and Will went live at 11am ET to cover the week's biggest developments in the right wing fever swamp. Get 50% off of a new Bulwark+ subscription for the next year, that’s everything we offer on our website, by going to thebulwark.com/sanity – this is a limited time offer.

Andrew Egger and Will Saletan give their takes on Trump’s latest cabinet meeting spectacle, from his bizarre rant about the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, potentially bombing Oman, and Pete Hegseth pitching a staggering $1.5 trillion defense budget. As Trump’s poll numbers slide and Republicans brace for a brutal midterm environment, the White House still seems trapped in a reality-defying loyalty pageant.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker went live on Wednesday at 10:30am ET to cover the latest on the war in Iran and Pete Hegseth's graduation speech at West Point where he blamed “foolish and feckless leaders” for promoting diversity. Programming note: On June 8 at 7pm ET, Mona Charen and Mark Hertling will kick off the Bulwark Book Club with a live chat about Mark’s book, If I Don’t Return: A Father’s Wartime Journal. This livestream is for Bulwark+ subscribers on Substack and YouTube. Mark’s book consists of a series of journal entries Mark wrote to his two young sons while he was deployed in the Middle East. You can order Mark's book from Amazon or Barnes & Noble, or buy a signed copy via the publisher. Have question for Mark after reading If I Don’t Return? Drop your questions here or on this members-only post and join us live June 8. Members-only post: https://www.youtube.com/post/UgkxLdXeNJIIRiHPOGdVqOZQi2wa5KfRRniY Mark's book: http://www.amazon.com/dp/1966786727/?tag=bulwark08-20

Sam Stein and Will Saletan give their takes on Donald Trump’s latest visit to Walter Reed, the White House’s growing secrecy around his health, and the bizarre effort by the White House to defend footage of the president appearing to fall asleep during meetings. They discuss Trump’s repeated medical checkups, his confusing answers about MRIs and CAT scans, comparisons to the Biden health debate, and why transparency matters when it comes to the president of the United States.

Andrew and Bill went live at 10am ET on Tuesday to cover the notable deflections over the weekend from a small group of GOP Senators about a potential deal with Iran, the worsening approval ratings for Trump and the war, and the reported potential plan by the U.S. to have Iran send its enriched uranium to Pakistan, Turkey, Russia, or China. Read more from Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/trumps-iran-war-was-a-failure-deal-ceasefire-hormuz-nuclear-program-senators-wicker-graham-cruz Get 50% off of a new Bulwark+ subscription for the next year, that’s everything we offer on our website, by going to https://www.thebulwark.com/sanity – this is a limited time offer.

Jasmine poses Triad readers’ questions to JVL: How can we stop Trump's slush fund? Will AI discourse dominate the 2028 campaign? Why does Trump keep turning down Iran's proposals to end the war? What is the true definition of populism? All that and more (like whether JVL thinks his best friend, Sarah Longwell, should run for Senate in Pennsylvania) in this week’s mailbag. Paid members of the Bulwark can get the full episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Substack.

Van Lathan joined Tim Miller at the Los Angeles live show to break down the SCOTUS VRA ruling and what it really means for the Deep South—including a conversation with his 88-year-old grandmother who thought the civil rights battle was already won. Plus: Van's gym run-in with Theo Von, whether MAGA can be deprogrammed, and why he's not the one to do it (but Tim might be).

Ebola is back. Hantavirus is spreading. So Sonny Bunch and Jonathan Cohn revisited three pandemic "classics"—And the Band Played On, Contagion, and Outbreak—to see which one we're actually living in.

Before the DNC released its unfinished autopsy report on May 21, The Bulwark published an exclusive behind-the-scenes article with an accounting of what happened inside the Biden and Harris presidential campaigns in 2024. It was written by Rob Flaherty who served as deputy campaign manager. Flaherty had been interviewed for the autopsy and, before anything was released from the DNC, felt it was critical to pull back the curtain on his view that Democrats ran a campaign built for a world that no longer exists. From his descriptions of a political brand failure, what happened during negotiations with Joe Rogan and the breakdowns he says happened around social media, it is a more complete "autopsy" than what was ultimately released. To bring Flaherty's piece to you as quickly as possible, we've used computer-generated narration with an intro by The Bulwark's Sam Stein.

Catherine Rampell welcomes former DHS official Doug Rand to take on Trump’s purposely chaotic new green card policy, why legal immigrants and Silicon Valley are panicking, and how the administration may be using confusion and fear to push people out of the country. Listen to Doug Rand's podcast, 'The Melting Pod' — https://meltingpod.org/

Tim Miller, Sarah Longwell, Sam Stein, Van Lathan, Brian Tyler Cohen, Jon Favreau, Jane Coaston and Erin Gloria Ryan appeared on stage LIVE in Los Angeles on May 21, 2026. The Bulwark hosted a live quiz pitting the two teams against each other on the most obscure—and embarrassing—chapters of recent political history. Plus: the DNC autopsy gets roasted, California goes on trial, and JD Vance receives the takedown he deserves.

Bill Kristol talks with Michael Wood about his military service and the debacle of Trump's Iran war.

Tim Miller, Sam Stein & Andrew Egger went live to cover what appears to be an imminent deal to end the war in Iran.

Tim Miller, Sam Stein, and Will Sommer descend into the strangest corners of MAGA internet culture: January 6 reparations, Hunter Biden teaming up with Candace Owens, Nick Fuentes feuding with Tucker Carlson, and the surreal “Beartaria” compound where the internet’s saddest men are trying to build a right-wing utopia. Plus: San Diego Republican drama, burglar twinks, and more deeply cursed political lore.

Join Catherine Rampell and JVL at 12:30pm ET as they go live to discuss the biggest political, financial and economic stories of the week. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/BULWARKTAKES to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

Tim Miller and Andrew Egger are going live to give their takes on Tulsi Gabbard’s resignation from the Trump administration. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/BULWARKTAKES to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

Catherine Rampell is joined by Thomas Florsheim Jr., whose company makes the president’s favorite shoe brand, to discuss what Trump’s tariff agenda has meant for his business. From skyrocketing import costs to supply-chain chaos to millions paid in tariffs, Thomas explains why reshoring production to the United States still doesn’t make economic sense. He describes the scramble to move manufacturing between countries, the hidden costs businesses face from constant policy uncertainty, and why his company ultimately sued the federal government over the tariffs. Get 20% off your first order, plus free shipping during the Memorial Day Sale at https://www.bollandbranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes. Read more from Catherine Rampell: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/receipts

Will Saletan gives his take on Todd Blanche’s embarrassing performance as Donald Trump’s acting Attorney General, and why his public defenses of the administration keep collapsing under scrutiny. From reviving debunked 2020 election claims to arguing that indictments themselves are proof of guilt, except when it comes to Trump, Blanche repeatedly finds himself trying to justify glaring double standards in real time. Will walks through Blanche’s interviews, the James Comey indictment, Trump’s public pressure on DOJ leadership, and how the Justice Department is shaped by loyalty to Trump rather than consistent legal principles. Get 20% off your first order, plus free shipping during the Memorial Day Sale at https://www.bollandbranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes.

Join Tim Miller, Sarah Longwell, and Sam Stein live on the Bulwark tour bus, as they head to Los Angeles. Get 20% off your first order, plus free shipping during the Memorial Day Sale at https://www.bollandbranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes.

Jonathan Cohn is joined by Dr. Craig Spencer to break down the growing Ebola outbreak in Central Africa, why global health officials are sounding the alarm, and how Trump-era cuts to public health infrastructure could affect the response. Spencer is an emergency medicine physician and Ebola survivor. During the historic 2014 outbreak, he treated patients and then contracted Ebola himself, became one of the most visible voices during that crisis. Dr. Spencer explains why this outbreak has experts more worried than past Ebola flare-ups, how Ebola actually spreads, and why it is very different from a respiratory virus like COVID. Read more from Jonathan Cohn: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/trump-decimated-our-global-health-network-then-ebola-hit-outbreak Get 20% off your first order, plus free shipping during the Memorial Day Sale at https://www.bollandbranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes.

JVL and Andrew Egger give their takes on Donald Trump’s bizarre comments about wanting to be prime minister of Israel, his relationship with Netanyahu, and his supposed “99%” approval rating in Israel. They also break down the growing MAGA divide over Israel and Iran, Thomas Massie’s defeat, and why Trump’s political instincts may finally be slipping. Plus: the Republican backlash to Trump’s billion-dollar ballroom and what it says about a president governing like he has nothing left to lose. Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms.

Donald Trump turns 80 next month, but Democrats still seem reluctant to make his age and health a political issue. Sam Stein and Lauren Egan give their takes on the questions about Trump’s bruised hands, dentist visits, public appearances, and why the overall transparency about Trump's health hasn't become a bigger story even after Republicans spent years relentlessly attacking Joe Biden over age and decline. Plus: Sam attempts to test Trump’s concealer explanation himself. Read more from Lauren's reporting: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/democrats-trump-aging-elderly-very-old-hands-makeup Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker went live on Wednesday morning to give their takes on NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's comments about the Strait of Hormuz and the reported plan by the U.S. and Israel to install Mahmoud Ahmadinejad back to power in Iran. Plus, Ben and Mark break down why Pete Hegseth's decision to pull troops out of Poland makes no sense and dismiss Vance's ridiculous comments about Trump and Ukraine. Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms.

Donald Trump just endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over longtime Senator John Cornyn. Tim Miller joined Chris Jansing on MS Now to say it’s one of the most humiliating political rejections imaginable. After years of defending Trump, flattering Trump, and publicly groveling for Trump’s approval, Cornyn still got tossed aside in favor of Paxton, a scandal-plagued MAGA loyalist. Tim breaks down why Trump’s endorsement matters, what it says about the Republican Party, and why Democrats believe James Talarico could now have a real opening in Texas. Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein and JVL give their takes on Rep. Thomas Massie's primary loss to Trump-backed challenger Ed Gallrein. Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Andrew Egger and Will Sommer take on the chaos erupting inside the January 6th world now that Trump's $1.776 billion "weaponization" slush fund is real — including two MAGA lawyers in an all-out war over who gets to skim 30% off the rioters' windfall, and one miraculous lung recovery that happened to coincide with the fund's announcement. Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES. The Trio is live in San Diego on Wednesday, May 20th—grab your tickets at https://thebulwark.com/events.

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol went live to discuss the terms of Trump’s $1.776 billion slush fund for his fans, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche defending the outrageous fund to Congress, Trump’s slipping poll numbers. Plus, amid a war in Iran and surging gas prices, Trump has his eyes on one thing: the ballroom. Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Will Sommer are finally doing it live—and before they hit the stage in San Diego, they’re warming up with the week’s most unhinged news from MAGA World. Trump is amplifying bizarre (flattering?) information about Thomas Massie’s sex life. Hunter Biden is going on Candace Owens. And a January 6th grifter made a miraculous recovery the moment reparations money appeared. The Trio is live in San Diego on Wednesday, May 20th—grab your tickets at https://thebulwark.com/events. Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Tim Miller takes on Trump's last-minute decision to stand down from a planned military strike on Iran, and why the real story isn't the diplomacy, it's who's doing the asking. Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE told Trump to hold off, and he said yes. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Andrew Egger and Joe Perticone give their takes on Trump’s shocking new $1.776 billion “anti-weaponization” settlement fund, a scheme that could funnel taxpayer money to January 6 defendants and other Trump allies. They explain how the administration rushed the deal to avoid judicial scrutiny, why Congress likely won’t stop it, and how Republicans could end up politically trapped ahead of a tough midterm season defending payouts to convicted rioters. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer went live to cover Trump withdrawing his $10B lawsuit against the IRS, the $1.7B slush fund for MAGA allies, Trump’s bizarre Bible reading, Laura Loomer’s fight with Thomas Massie that includes accusations of swinging and cocaine, and groyper drama involving a witch that you need to hear to believe. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Tim Miller and Cameron Kasky join together in New Orleans for a weekend potpourri: the most expensive congressional primary in history (and why a Parkland survivor is rooting for the libertarian gun guy), Eric Metaxas declaring God's divine will is being spent on Trump's ballroom, and why Trump's Iran threats stopped meaning anything weeks ago. Plus: oil at $107, the parliamentarian strikes back, and Tim gets caught on Geese Reddit.

Bill Cassidy tried to survive Trump’s wrath after voting for his impeachment. It didn’t work. Sam Stein and Sarah Longwell take on Cassidy’s crushing third place finish, Lindsey Graham’s comments about “Trump’s party,” and what it means for Republicans who cross Trump.

Rob Flaherty, deputy campaign manager of Kamala Harris’s 2024 presidential campaign, joins Bill Kristol for Bulwark on Sunday to discuss his massive article on the missing DNC autopsy, what really sunk the campaign, and the future of elections.

Will Saletan takes on Donald Trump’s own words on the Iran war, gas prices, inflation, and the economy — and methodically shows how Trump keeps contradicting himself on camera. From $300 oil to “I don’t think about Americans’ financial situation,” this is a devastating walkthrough of Trump’s economic and political logic.

Tim Miller talked to Nicolle Wallace on MS Now to give his take on Trump’s embarrassing summit in China, where Trump praised Chinese President Xi Jinping and left with no results for ending the war in Iran. Plus, Tim gave his take on the proposed $1.7 billion fund tied to Trump allies and January 6-related figures, raising fresh concerns about corruption, political favoritism, and taxpayer money being directed toward controversial recipients. Refresh your everyday with luxury you’ll actually use. Head to https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Tim Miller is joined by Johnny Garcia, a Democrat running in Texas’s 35th Congressional District, where a closely watched runoff on May 26 could help decide control of a key House seat. Garcia, a deputy sheriff and former hostage negotiator, outlines his background in law enforcement and his pitch to working-class voters who are struggling with rising costs and economic uncertainty. They also talk about the unusual dynamics of the race: Republicans are reportedly spending significant money to boost Garcia’s runoff opponent, a fringe candidate accused of promoting antisemitic conspiracy theories, in an apparent effort to shape a more favorable general election matchup after mid-cycle redistricting in Texas. Refresh your everyday with luxury you’ll actually use. Head to https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Catherine Rampell and JVL went LIVE to give their takes on Trump's reported plans for a secretive $1.7 billion taxpayer-funded slush fund that could quietly reward Jan. 6 defendants and Trump political allies behind closed doors. Refresh your everyday with luxury you’ll actually use. Head to https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too. Read Catherine Rampell's newsletter, 'Receipts' — https://www.thebulwark.com/s/receipts Read JVL's newsletter, 'The Triad' — https://www.thebulwark.com/s/thetriad

Tim Miller takes on reports that Kash Patel is snorkeling at Pearl Harbor, rigging the most wanted list, and jetting his girlfriend around Europe on your dime. Meanwhile Trump just created a $1.7 billion slush fund for his criminal allies—no Congress required.

Joshua Doss joins Sam Stein to discuss why Black voters are abandoning the Democratic Party, how Republican redistricting may have accidentally handed organizers their most powerful message in years, and why the voters Democrats need most are the ones they've ignored the longest.

Tim Miller, Sarah Longwell, and JVL are doing a bonus not-quite-TNL to take on Trump’s staggering $10 billion lawsuit scheme against the federal government, the MAGA civil war over Thomas Massie, and the surreal Capitol Hill bar confrontation involving Rand Paul’s son, antisemitic insults, and Kentucky Republican chaos. Plus, JD Vance launches an “anti-fraud” task force while Trump’s allies chase billions and pardon money. Just announced: San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and our own MAGA culture expert, Will Sommer, will join the gang on stage at Bulwark Live: San Diego on May 20. And on May 21 at Bulwark Live: LA our friends Jane Coaston, Jon Favreau, Erin Ryan from , The Ringer’s Van Lathan and progressive commentator Brian Tyler Cohen will join Sarah, Tim and Sam on stage. Grab your seats today at: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/bulwark-events

Sam Stein and Will Sommer give their takes on the report from NOTUS that Senator Rand Paul’s son  confronted Congressman Mike Lawler in a drunken late-night exchange that reportedly included anti-Semitic remarks, a rant about Thomas Massie’s Kentucky primary, and even complaints about the SALT cap. The two unpack the growing MAGA civil war surrounding Massie, the influence of figures like Tucker Carlson, and why Trumpworld appears determined to crush one of the few Republicans willing to openly defy Trump. They also dive into the bizarre allegations now hanging over Massie’s re-election campaign, including “cow money,” workplace complaints, and a last-minute political hit that could shake up the race. JOIN US! We’ll have some chatty friends joining us on stage for Bulwark Live in San Diego on May 20 and Los Angeles on May 21. For details or to grab your seats today head to TheBulwark.com/Events. More

Sam Stein and Will Sommer give their takes on the explosive Senate hearing where Senator Chris Van Hollen pressed FBI Director Kash Patel over his reported heavy drinking, leak hunts, and polygraph tests inside the FBI. What started as a bizarre exchange about an alcohol “AUDIT test” quickly spiraled into accusations, evasions, and some very awkward denials. The two unpack Patel’s combative performance, the administration’s growing paranoia over leaks, and why Donald Trump may see Patel as too useful to lose, no matter how chaotic things get. Just announced: San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and our own MAGA culture expert, Will Sommer, will join the gang on stage at Bulwark Live: San Diego on May 20. And on May 21 at Bulwark Live: LA our friends Jane Coaston, Jon Favreau, Erin Ryan from , The Ringer’s Van Lathan and progressive commentator Brian Tyler Cohen will join Sarah, Tim and Sam on stage. Grab your seats today at: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/bulwark-events

Tim Miller gives his take on the troubling pattern involving several January 6 defendants who were pardoned by Donald Trump and have since been re-arrested or charged with new crimes in the last year. Recent cases include allegations ranging from assault and harassment to child sexual exploitation charges, as well as violent threats against elected officials, including Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today. Just announced: San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and our own MAGA culture expert, Will Sommer, will join the gang on stage at Bulwark Live: San Diego on May 20. And on May 21 at Bulwark Live: LA our friends Jane Coaston, Jon Favreau, Erin Ryan from , The Ringer’s Van Lathan and progressive commentator Brian Tyler Cohen will join Sarah, Tim and Sam on stage. Grab your seats today at: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/bulwark-events

Sam Stein is joined by Rep. Adam Smith, ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, for his take on Trump’s war in Iran, the $29 billion estimate of the cost of the war, the $1.2 trillion cost to make a “Golden Dome” style defense, and Congressman Smith’s plan to investigate the U.S. strike on an Iranian girl’s school that killed over 100 people. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Jonathan Cohn and Andrew Egger are going live to cover the breaking news that FDA Commissioner Marty Makary has resigned. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today. Read Jonathan Cohn's The Breakdown Newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/the-breakdown Read Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/morningshots Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol went live at 10am ET to discuss Trump's insane overnight Truth Social posts about how “Dumacrats Love Sewage” and how Barack Obama should be prosecuted for treason. Plus, the Trump family's latest grift is their non-existent cellphone Trump Mobile, despite collecting $59 million in deposits. And, Catherine Rampell joins Andrew to break down the latest inflation numbers, the highest in nearly three years. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today. Read Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/morningshots Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sam Stein joined Katy Tur on MS Now to break down the Trump administration’s increasingly desperate messaging on the economy as prices keep climbing and voters feel the squeeze. As top Trump economic adviser Kevin Hassett pointed to soaring credit card spending as proof the economy is “strong,” Trump is now proposing a federal gas tax holiday, and is considering easing tariffs on beef imports. Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms. Watch Katy Tur Reports on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/katy-tur-reports

Sam Stein and Will Sommer went live at 10am ET on Monday, May 11 to discuss the golden statue of Trump just unveiled at his golf club, the Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy going on a 7-month road trip, Trump's obsession with painting the reflecting pool, and the UFC fight next month on the White House lawn. Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms. Read Will Sommer's False Flag newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sonny Bunch and Lt. General Mark Hertling (Ret.) break down the greatest war movies ever made from "Saving Private Ryan" and "Black Hawk Down" to "Gettysburg" and "Patton." But this isn’t just a movie ranking. Hertling explains what these films reveal about leadership, combat, strategy, sacrifice, and the real human cost of war. Drawing on decades of military experience, he discusses which movies got war right, what Hollywood still misses, and why stories about combat still matter today.

In a special pre-recorded edition of Bulwark on Sunday, Bill Kristol and Sarah Longwell discuss the Virginia redistricting shock, the fight for the 2026 Senate map, Trump’s falling approval numbers, and why Democrats have a much bigger opening than they realize. They also talk about inflation, tariffs, the Iran war’s effect on gas prices, Trump voter backlash, and why Democrats need to stop panicking and start campaigning like they’re trying to win power back.

Tim Miller reacts to the escalating fight over redistricting and voting rights after appearances on 'All In with Chris Hayes' and 'Katy Tur Reports,' breaking down the Louisiana and Tennessee map battles, canceled votes, and why he believes Republicans are trying to rig the midterms in plain sight. Plus, Tim discusses the Iran war, Trump’s obsession with getting a deal, and why Iran and Russia may see weakness in Trump’s “day-by-day” political style All In with Chris Hayes: https://www.ms.now/all Katy Tur Reports: https://www.ms.now/katy-tur-reports ON SALE NOW: Bulwark Live is coming to San Diego on May 20 and Los Angeles on May 21. Just announced! We’re adding some chatty friends to the lineups for both shows. Grab your seats now to join Sarah, Tim and Sam for an evening of politics among friends and keep an eye on https://TheBulwark.com/Events for more announcements.

JVL is joined by SiriusXM's The Catholic Channel host Katie McGrady to break down one of the strangest diplomatic moments of the year: Secretary of State Marco Rubio meeting Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican and gifting him a crystal football paperweight. They unpack the awkward exchange, why the Trump administration seems uneasy with the first American pope, and how previous presidents and diplomats handled papal gifts with a lot more thought. ON SALE NOW: Bulwark Live is coming to San Diego on May 20 and Los Angeles on May 21. Just announced! We’re adding some chatty friends to the lineups for both shows. Grab your seats now to join Sarah, Tim and Sam for an evening of politics among friends and keep an eye on https://TheBulwark.com/Events for more announcements.

Sam Stein and Sarah Longwell break down the shocking Virginia Supreme Court decision overturning the state’s new redistricting maps and what it means for the battle for control of the House in 2026. Democrats believed Virginia was their biggest answer to Republican-led mid-cycle gerrymandering in states like Texas, Florida, and Tennessee. Sam and Sarah explain why the decision is such a major setback for Democrats, how Republicans are redrawing districts across the South, and whether Democrats can still overcome a growing GOP structural advantage. For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES. Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Catherine Rampell and JVL went live at 12:30pm ET to discuss the week's economic and financial news. For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES. Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sarah Longwell and Catherine Rampell react to the absurd new YouGov poll asking whether Americans think they—or even an 8-year-old boy—could beat Donald Trump in a fight. For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Mat frame at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES. Bulwark Live: California tickets are on sale now! Sarah and gang return to sunny Southern California for two nights May 20 & 21. For details and tickets go to https://TheBulwark.com/Events.

Jonathan Cohn is joined by epidemiologist and former CDC consultant Katelyn Jetelina to unpack the emerging hantavirus outbreak linked to a small expedition cruise ship in the South Atlantic. Katelyn breaks down what hantavirus is, how it typically spreads, why this outbreak is unusual, and what health officials actually know so far. She also explains why experts are urging calm rather than panic and how different the hantavirus is from Covid. Read more of Katelyn's work: https://yourlocalepidemiologist.substack.com/ Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today. Bulwark Live: California tickets are on sale now! Sarah and gang return to sunny Southern California for two nights May 20 & 21. For details and tickets go to https://TheBulwark.com/Events.

Tim Miller breaks down the rapidly escalating confrontation between the U.S. and Iran after Iranian forces targeted American destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz and the U.S. responded with new strikes on Iranian military assets. Despite active combat at sea, Donald Trump insists the ceasefire is still intact, even calling the exchange a “love tap.” Tim gives his take on the administration’s contradictory messaging, global oil markets, and America’s role in the region. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today. Bulwark Live: California tickets are on sale now! Sarah and gang return to sunny Southern California for two nights May 20 & 21. For details and tickets go to https://TheBulwark.com/Events.

Sam Stein and Lauren Egan give their takes on the first ads from Maine Senate candidates Graham Platner and Susan Collins. The two campaigns couldn’t be more different. Platner comes out aggressively, launching a hard-hitting populist message that goes straight at Collins’ record and frames the race as part of a broader fight over power, Trump, and the direction of the country. Meanwhile, Susan Collins responds with a very different strategy: a nostalgic, local-focused ad centered on a decade-old infrastructure win in Maine. Sam and Lauren dig into what these opening ads reveal about each campaign’s theory of the race, whether Collins’ long-standing strengths still hold in today’s environment, and how Platner is betting that going on offense early will define her before she can define him. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today. Bulwark Live: California tickets are on sale now! Sarah and gang return to sunny Southern California for two nights May 20 & 21. For details and tickets go to https://TheBulwark.com/Events.

Sarah Longwell takes on growing backlash from Trump’s own voters as rising gas prices, grocery costs, and the fallout from the Iran war hammer household budgets. New focus groups reveal frustration, disappointment, and anger from people who believed Trump’s promises on the economy and “no more forever wars.” Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today. Bulwark Live: California tickets are on sale now! Sarah and gang return to sunny Southern California for two nights May 20 & 21. For details and tickets go to https://TheBulwark.com/Events.

Tim Miller joins Nicole Wallace on MSNBC with General Mark Hertling to discuss the Iran war chaos—Trump undercut Rubio twice in one day, the ceasefire is already wobbling, and the "deal" is one page long. Plus: Trump declared war on the Pope and is losing that one too. For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Mat frame at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES. Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house The Bulwark is going to Southern California! Go to https://thebulwark.com/events to learn more.

Tim Miller reacts to Barack Obama and Stephen Colbert joking about Trump, “Colbert 2028,” Democratic messaging failures, and the corruption Americans have somehow normalized in modern politics. For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Mat frame at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES. The Bulwark is going to Southern California! Go to https://thebulwark.com/events to learn more.

Sam Stein and Will Saletan give their takes on the breaking news that the FBI raided the office of Virginia Democrat Louise Lucas, the bizarre presence of a Fox News crew already on the scene, and the FBI’s reported investigation into leaks connected to a damaging Atlantic story about FBI Director Kash Patel. For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker went live to discuss the Washington Post’s reporting that Iran has hit more U.S. military assets than previously reported, the pause on Trump’s Project Freedom hours after it was announced, and whether Putin had any say about the U.S. withdrawing troops from Germany. For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES. Read more from the Washington Post exclusive: https://www.washingtonpost.com/investigations/2026/05/06/iran-us-bases-satellite-images/ Read more from Mark's piece on Germany:https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-last-time-we-reduced-troops-in-europe-war-germany-withdrawal-russia-ukraine-nato-trump-hegseth Read more from Mark's piece on culture at the Pentagon: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/pete-hegseth-change-military-culture-firings-diversity-general-secretary-admiral The Bulwark is going to Southern California! Go to https://thebulwark.com/events to learn more.